Voting Rights Coordinator - Mississippi Votes : Job Details

Voting Rights Coordinator Full Time; Voluntary; At-Will Preferred Start Date of Employment: ASAP About Us MS Votes is a non-profit organization committed to ensuring fair and accessible elections for all residents of Mississippi. We work tirelessly to protect the rights of voters and to provide accurate information to the public, ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. Position Overview The Voting Rights Coordinator at MS Votes is a critical leadership role dedicated to protecting and expanding voter access in Mississippi. This position manages the MS Votes Voter Information Hotline, leads voter education and outreach efforts, monitors election-related activities, and advocates for systemic reforms to safeguard voting rights. The Coordinator plays a strategic role in organizing partnerships, building community trust, and addressing barriers to civic participation through proactive engagement, research, and collaboration. Key Responsibilities Voter Hotline Management - Oversee the MS Votes Voter Information Hotline, ensuring timely and accurate responses to voter inquiries. - Recruit, train, and manage hotline volunteers to maintain a high standard of service. - Implement a system for recording, addressing, and resolving voter-reported issues, particularly on Election Day. - Develop and maintain a system to log and address election irregularities reported by voters. - Work closely with legal experts and election authorities to resolve voter issues promptly and document systemic challenges. - Identify and implement technology tools to enhance voter assistance, such as chatbots or online FAQs. - Collaborate with the tech team to optimize the user experience for hotline callers and streamline data collection. Election Observation and Monitoring - Recruit and train election observers to monitor polling places for compliance with election laws. - Monitor the activities of circuit clerks, election commissioners, and the Secretary of State's office post-election to ensure transparency and accountability. - Report findings and advocate for reforms based on election monitoring results. Data Collection & Analysis - Maintain accurate records of voter interactions, questions, and concerns. - Analyze hotline data to identify trends, barriers, and opportunities for improvement. - Generate detailed reports on hotline effectiveness to inform MS Votes' strategies and public advocacy. Voter Education and Outreach - Collaborate with MS Votes' outreach team to create and distribute educational materials and resources. - Conduct targeted outreach efforts to promote the hotline and other voter services. - Organize community forums, workshops, and town halls to inform voters about their rights and the electoral process. - Design tailored education programs for underrepresented communities, including rural voters, first-time voters, and returning citizens. - Develop and implement a rapid response plan to combat misinformation, disinformation, and voter suppression efforts. - Serve as a point person for managing public and media inquiries related to voter protection. Strategic Partnerships - Build and maintain relationships with local, state, and national voting rights organizations. - Coordinate joint initiatives with partners to address systemic barriers to voting. - Engage with community organizations, advocacy groups, and election officials to promote voter awareness. Advocacy and Policy Engagement - Monitor legislative developments related to voting rights and election laws. - Collaborate with MS Votes' policy team to develop and advocate for policy recommendations that protect and expand voting access. - Draft policy briefs and reports to raise public awareness and drive systemic change. Training and Capacity Building - Lead workshops for MS Votes staff and volunteers on election laws, advocacy techniques, and voter protection strategies. - Update training materials and hotline procedures to reflect changes in election rules or best practices. Post-Election Research and Advocacy - Conduct in-depth analyses of election reports to identify challenges and propose solutions. - Publish findings in collaboration with the communications team to drive public awareness and systemic reforms. Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (Political Science, Public Policy, Law, etc.) or equivalent work experience. - Strong knowledge of election laws, regulations, and voting procedures. - Excellent organizational and project management skills. - Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. - Previous experience in volunteer management is a plus. - Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, especially during election cycles. - Commitment to impartiality, voter protection, and the principles of democracy. Reports To: Policy & Research Director Position Details: - $60K-65K, Annual Salary - Position based in Jackson, MS - Competitive healthcare and benefits package How to Apply: Mississippi Votes is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply regardless of race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, age, height, weight, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital, or domestic partner status, or religious affiliation.